Chicago Bears: 10 bold predictions for 2019 NFL free agency
By Ryan Heckman
7. Bears do not re-sign Bryce Callahan
This one hurts. This one really hurts. But, I don’t know if the Bears have the cap space to make it happen.
Bryce Callahan is arguably the NFL’s top slot cornerback when he is healthy. However, health has been a concern for Callahan over the last couple of seasons.
From the slot – Bryce Callahan limited receivers better than anyone on a yards per coverage snap basis in 2018 pic.twitter.com/ibg5xMh4dV
— PFF (@PFF) February 1, 2019
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When healthy, the Bears get absolute dominance out of Callahan. He’s worth the money when he’s on the field. But, the problem is just that — the money. Will the Bears have enough to spend on Callahan if they deem him a top priority? That is the question.
On top of money being an issue (and I hate to say it), veteran corner Sherrick McManis filled in nicely following Callahan’s injury last season. It obviously helped that the Bears boast one of the league’s fiercest defenses as a whole, and a top-tier front seven.
With a front seven like Chicago’s, it’s no wonder McManis filled in well. Quarterbacks don’t have a lot of time to throw when they’re dealing with the likes of Mack, Akiem Hicks, Leonard Floyd, Roquan Smith, among others.
I don’t know if Callahan will cost too much, but I can see Pace taking a chance here and allowing both Amos and Callahan to walk.